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Industrial Property Characteristics Glossary
1 min read
by Jeff Hamann

Why Floor Thickness Matters in Industrial Real Estate

As products stack higher and higher, a property's floor thickness is a critical factor. Even so, there is no industry standard.

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One obvious element of any industrial facility is its floor, but the thickness of this floor is of critical importance. As more and more products get stacked higher and higher in distribution centers across the country, this places additional stress on an asset’s floor.

Before the floor is even poured, however, the ground beneath a warehouse must be very well compacted — and often even treated with chemicals. And with well-compacted earth beneath a project, it is far easier for an industrial builder to ensure the final floor is the same thickness throughout. If this work isn’t done correctly, the concrete slab could face structural issues as ground settles after construction is finished. 

While there is no standard thickness for an industrial asset’s floor, it is an important characteristic to know, especially given the volume of goods and vehicles flowing through a facility. Most modern distribution centers have floors at least 6 inches thick, though many — particularly in the case of heavy-traffic, high-throughput warehouses like Amazon fulfillment centers — may have a minimum of 8-inch floors.

Related Questions

What is the ideal floor thickness for industrial real estate?

The ideal floor thickness for industrial real estate depends on the type of use and the weight of the materials that will be stored in the building. Generally, industrial floors should be at least 6 inches thick for light to medium use, and 8 inches thick for heavy use. For example, a warehouse that will store heavy machinery or large amounts of inventory should have a floor thickness of 8 inches or more.

For more information, see Industrial Floor Thickness Requirements.

What are the benefits of having a thicker floor in an industrial property?

Having a thicker floor in an industrial property can provide a number of benefits. Thicker floors can help reduce noise levels, provide additional insulation, and increase the overall strength of the building. Additionally, thicker floors can help reduce the risk of damage from heavy machinery, such as forklifts, and can help reduce the risk of structural damage from vibrations. Thicker floors can also help reduce the risk of water damage, as they are less likely to crack or warp due to moisture. Finally, thicker floors can help reduce the risk of fire damage, as they are more resistant to heat and flames.

For more information, please see this article.

What are the drawbacks of having a thinner floor in an industrial property?

Having a thinner floor in an industrial property can reduce the weight capacity of the floor, which can limit the types of equipment that can be used in the building. Additionally, a thinner floor can reduce the soundproofing of the building, which can be a problem if the building is located in a residential area. Finally, a thinner floor can reduce the overall structural integrity of the building, which can be a safety concern. Source

What are the most common floor thicknesses for industrial real estate?

The most common floor thicknesses for industrial real estate are between 4 and 6 inches. This is because thicker floors are more expensive to construct and are not necessary for most industrial applications. However, thicker floors may be necessary for certain types of industrial operations, such as those that involve heavy machinery or require a higher load capacity. For more information, see this article from CommercialRealEstate.Loans.

What are the differences between concrete and steel flooring in industrial real estate?

The primary difference between concrete and steel flooring in industrial real estate is the weight capacity. Concrete floors are typically thicker and can support heavier loads than steel floors. Concrete floors are also more resistant to wear and tear, and can last longer than steel floors. Steel floors are more cost-effective and can be installed more quickly than concrete floors. Steel floors are also more resistant to fire and water damage than concrete floors.

For more information, please see the following sources:

  • Concrete Flooring
  • Steel Flooring

What are the best flooring materials for industrial real estate?

The best flooring materials for industrial real estate depend on the type of use and the amount of traffic the floor will receive. For example, concrete is a popular choice for industrial buildings because it is durable and can withstand heavy loads. However, if the floor will be used for storage, then a more resilient material such as epoxy or vinyl may be a better choice. Additionally, if the floor will be used for manufacturing, then a material such as rubber or polyurethane may be a better option. For more information, you can read this article about what to consider when making an industrial property investment.

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